Inmate officially charged with murder

Miguel Contreras-Perez appeared in Crowley County District Court Tuesday where he was officially charged with first degree murder, among other charges, in the killing of Sgt. Marty Ricard at the Arkansas Valley Correctional Facility in Ordway.

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By La Junta Tribune-Democrat

LA Junta Tribune - La Junta, CO

By La Junta Tribune-Democrat

Posted Jan. 30, 2013 at 1:00 PM
Updated Jan 30, 2013 at 3:51 PM

By La Junta Tribune-Democrat

Posted Jan. 30, 2013 at 1:00 PM
Updated Jan 30, 2013 at 3:51 PM

The number of witnesses that can be called to testify in the court case involving an inmate suspected of killing a prison guard was brought to attention Tuesday.

District Judge Michael Schiferl suggested to the Sixteenth Judicial District Attorney's office that the list of the state's possible witnesses be narrowed in the case against Miguel Contreras-Perez.

The reason behind the suggestion is that there could be up to 1,100 possible witnesses in the case — ranging from inmates to prison employees.

Contreras-Perez was named a suspect in September in the killing of Sgt. Marty Ricard at the Arkansas Valley Correctional Facility in Ordway.

Another guard, Sgt. Lori Gann, was severely injured in the attack.

Contreras-Perez appeared in Crowley County District Court Tuesday where he was officially charged with first degree murder, attempted first degree murder, first degree assault, possession of contraband (a knife), possession of contraband (a razor).

The defense asked for information concerning pending charges against witnesses. Defense also asked for information concerning criminal background of any officer involved. The second request was granted by the judge. "What's the harm?" Schiferl asked. The background check will be done only on those who may be called in this case.

The defense asked for extra time to prepare because of the enormous amount of evidence (two boxes full) and discovery work to be done. Asked if the defense would waive the 35 day requirement, the defense agreed. The next hearing of this case was set in Crowley County for April 22, 9:30 a.m.

The judge ordered the defendant be taken to the sheriff's office to be photographed and fingerprinted on this charge.